Students invited to compete in Law Day contests
Washington County students in grades 2 through 12 are invited to submit entries for this year’s Law Day contests sponsored by the Washington County Bar Association and Observer Publishing Co. Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday.
This year’s theme is “The 14th Amendment: Transforming American Democracy.” It explores how the 14th Amendment to the Constitution reshaped American law and society and advanced the rights of all Americans. Ratified on July 9, 1868, the amendment granted citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States,” which included former slaves recently freed.
A bookmark contest for students in grades 2-5 has cash prizes ranging from $50 to $15. The editorial essay contest and creative arts contest for students in grades 6-12 have cash prizes ranging from $100 to $225. New this year, students and adults can create dioramas using Just Born “Peeps” marshmallow treats to convey the Law Day theme, with winners in grades 6-12 receiving cash prizes from $100 to $225 and adults winning $200 for the charity of their choice.
Winners and honorable mentions will receive a certificate and will be honored at the Law Day celebration May 1 at Washington County Courthouse.
The Law Day committee also is seeking submissions of citizenship projects that have had an impact on Washington County over the past two years. Washington County residents or an organization with its primary address in Washington County are eligible to apply for the $250 prize, which will be donated to the winner’s charity of choice.
Law Day U.S.A. was established in 1958 by President Eisenhower to strengthen the heritage of liberty, justice and equality under the law. Law Day is officially May 1; however, the Washington County Bar Association provides educational resources and activities for schools throughout the spring months as part of its “law day season” of programming. Lesson plans are available at www.lawday.org and in-school speakers and activities can be scheduled through the Bar Association.
For complete rules or more information, visit www.washcobar.org/public-education, call 724-225-6710 or email wcba@washcobar.org.